REASONS TO BUY
Simple
Very cheap
Lightweight
REASONS TO AVOID
Too simple
Cheaply made
Not durable
Coleman Sundome Dome 4 Review
A starter tent that works for those looking to get into camping on the cheap
Credit: Coleman
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Our Verdict
The Coleman Sundome 4 is one of the most reviewed tents on the market. When you look at the simple design, small package, and price point, it is easy to see why. However, this is a no-frills dome tent, so when it comes to performance, there are some major flaws, such as fiberglass poles, plastic hooks for the fly, and questionable netting material. You will find adequate ventilation, two storage pockets, and a rainfly that isn't the worst we have seen. So if you are looking to dip your toe into the camping world and see how you fare, this isn't a bad option.
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Sundome Dome is all about simplicity and economy. A classic dome structure, single door, and vented roof make pitching this tent relatively easy, though we had issues with the rainfly. The floor is also cheap polyethylene material — you will basically be sleeping on a tarp — and we had some pole malfunction right out of the gate. However, coming in at 9.8 lbs with 63 sq ft of tent space, a family of four can certainly make due.
Performance Comparison
The little but mighty Sundome is a great choice for getting into camping.
Credit: Rob Gaedtke
Space and Comfort
This tent is basic. It's a 4-person dome structure with minimal height, no vestibules, and thick, warm materials used throughout. It wasn't built with high comfort in mind. A few features save the Sundome from totally bonking in this category, though: the addition of a floor vent and the open ceiling help counteract the heat-prone materials. The essentials are also covered: two pockets on the floor, a minimal rainfly that works surprisingly well, and enough floor space to fit two twin beds with ease.
A 4-person tent is a dog's best friend. They will get lots of pets being this close to everyone.
Credit: Rob Gaedtke
Weather Resistance
The Sundome is pretty good in this department. The low wide profile and included guylines hold up well in the wind, and the tent floor has a tub design. As long as you can avoid a tear or puncture, you should stay dry. However, it isn't the design that is at risk — it is the construction. The use of weaker materials like cheap plastic clips, elastic connection points, fiberglass poles, and the tarp floor is where the Sundome could fail after harsh use.
Ease of Use
Because of the no-frills approach to this tent build, pitching the Sundome only took 5 minutes and 43 seconds. The fly is the kicker, as is getting the poles set. Coleman chose not to use grommets like the rest of the tent world and instead attached a pin on every corner that slides inside the pole. Though not ideal, it is fairly easy to get used to doing. Packing the tent back up into the bag isn't very hard either. There is a removable extension on the bottom that we assume helps keep the bag small for shipping but, once removed, allows a little more breathing room.
The string connecting the poles together snapped on our first setup of the Coleman Sundome 4.
Credit: Rob Gaedtke
Durability
From the netting to the poles to the rainfly, many of the main components of this tent are not built to last. For example, the string that connects the pole sections together broke on our first pitch. Long story short, if you do decide to go with the Sundome, just be sure to have a pole patch kit available. Or, better yet, upgrade to a set of aluminum poles.
While fine for light and occasional use, the plastic clips, fiberglass poles, and tarp-like floor of the Coleman Sundome 4 are budget components that may not last you as long.
Credit: Rob Gaedtke
Family Friendliness
A family of four will fit in this tent, but it is going to be tight with only 63 sq ft of floor space and no vestibule. We fit a full and twin air mattress with a little room to spare, but that didn't leave us much extra space for bags and storage. And with only one interior pocket, be prepared for someone to lose their keys or phone.
With good weather, the Sundome can be an ok choice for families looking to try camping.
Credit: Rob Gaedtke
Value
You get exactly what you pay for here. This tent is right on par with its cost; however, because the poles broke on us right away, the actual value may depend on whether you get a good batch or not.
Conclusion
First-timers. Budget shoppers. Festival/show-goers. This is a bargain snag that will get the job done, and you won't cry if you have to toss it when it inevitably breaks down. Easy setup, good ventilation, privacy, and price are the high notes for those looking at the Coleman Sundome 4.
—
Rob Gaedtke
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